Modular outlet

ABSTRACT

In conjunction with a wiring in a house carrying data network signal, a modular outlet comprising of a base module and interface module. The base module connects to the wiring and attached to a wall. The interface module provides a data unit connection. The interface module is mechanically attached to the base module and electrically connected thereto. The wiring may also carry basic service signal such as telephone, electrical power and cable television (CATV). In such a case, the outlet will provide the relevant connectivity either as part of the base module or as part of the interface module. Both proprietary and industry standard interfaces can be used to interconnect the module. Furthermore, a standard computer expansion card (such as PCI, PCMCIA and alike) may be used as interface module.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

The present application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.10/836,267, filed on May 3, 2004, now pending, the disclosure of whichis incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to the field of wired networks usingoutlets, and, more specifically, to a modular outlet for use in suchnetworks.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Outlets

The term “outlet” herein denotes an electromechanical device, whichfacilitates easy, rapid connection and disconnection of external devicesto and from wiring installed within a building. An outlet commonly has afixed connection to the wiring, and permits the easy connection ofexternal devices as desired, commonly by means of an integratedconnector in a faceplate. The outlet is normally mechanically attachedto, or mounted in, a wall. Non-limiting examples of common outletsinclude: telephone outlets for connecting telephones and relateddevices; CATV outlets for connecting television sets, VC's, and thelike; outlets used as part of LAN wiring (a.k.a. structured wiring) andelectrical outlets for connecting power to electrical appliances. Theterm “wall” herein denotes any interior or exterior surface of abuilding, including, but not limited to, ceilings and floors, inaddition to vertical walls.

LAN Environment

FIG. 1 shows a typical prior art LAN environment 10. Such a networkcommonly uses 10BaseT or 100BaseTX Ethernet IEEE802.3 interfaces andtopology, and features a hub 11 as a concentrating device, into whichall devices are connected. Devices are connected to the hub 11 by dataconnectors 14 a, 14 b, and 14 c, which are housed within network outlets15 a, 15 b, and 15 c respectively. Connections to the hub 11 are viacables 13 a, 13 b, and 13 c respectively. Data connectors 14 a, 14 b,and 14 c may be, for example, type RJ-45 connectors; and cables 13 a, 13b, and 13 c may be, for example, Category 5 cabling. Such configurationis described, for example, in EIT/TIA-568 and ELA/TIA-570. The dataportion of network 10 uses data units (which may be computers) 7 a, 7 b,and 7 c, which connect to network connectors 14 a, 14 b, and 14 c viacables 16 a, 16 b, and 16 c, respectively. A server 12 may also beconnected to the hub 11, and can perform the external connectionfunctionality, as well as other server functions as applied in the art.

Although FIG. 1 refers to the hub 11 as a concentrating device, it is tobe understood that any type of device having multiple network interfacesand supporting a suitable connectivity can be used, non-limitingexamples of which include shared hubs, switches (switched hubs),routers, and gateways. Hence, the term “hub” herein denotes any suchdevice without limitation. Furthermore, network 10 can be a packet-basednetwork, either in-building or distributed, such as a LAN or theInternet.

Home Networking

Most existing offices and some of the newly built buildings facilitatethe network structure of network 10. However, implementing such anetwork in existing buildings typically requires installation of newwiring infrastructure. Such installation of new wiring may beimpractical, expensive and hassle-oriented. As a result, manytechnologies (referred to as “no new wires” technologies) have beenproposed in order to facilitate a LAN in a building without adding newwiring. Some of these techniques use existing wiring used also for otherpurposes such as telephone, electricity, cable television, and so forth.Doing so offers the advantage of being able to install such systems andnetworks without the additional and often substantial cost of installingseparate wiring within the building. In order to facilitate multiple useof wiring within a building, specialized outlets are sometimesinstalled, which allow access to the wiring for multiple purposes. Homenetworking using existing telephone lines will be hereinafter describedas an example.

Telephony Definitions and Background

The term “telephony” herein denotes in general any kind of telephoneservice, including analog and digital service, such as IntegratedServices Digital Network (ISDN).

Analog telephony, popularly known as “Plain Old Telephone Service”(“POTS”) has been in existence for over 100 years, and is well-designedand well-engineered for the transmission and switching of voice signalsin the 3-4 KHz portion (or “band”) of the audio spectrum. The familiarPOTS network supports real-time, low-latency, high-reliability,moderate-fidelity voice telephony, and is capable of establishing asession between two end-points, each using an analog telephone set.

The terms “telephone”, “telephone set”, and “telephone device” hereindenote any apparatus, without limitation, which can connect to a PublicSwitch Telephone Network (“PSTN”), including apparatus for both analogand digital telephony, non-limiting examples of which are analogtelephones, digital telephones, facsimile (“fax”) machines, automatictelephone answering machines, voice modems, and data modems.

The terms “data unit”, “computer” and “personal computer” (“PC”) areused herein interchangeably to include workstations, Personal DigitalAssistants (PDA) and other data terminal equipment (DTE) with interfacesfor connection to a local area network, as well as any other functionalunit of a data station that serves as a data source or a data sink.(orboth).

In-home telephone service usually employs two or four wires, to whichtelephone sets are connected via telephone outlets.

Home Networking over Telephone Lines.

FIG. 2 shows the wiring configuration of a prior-art telephone systemincluding a network 20 for a residence or other building, wired with atelephone line 5, which has a single wire pair that connects to ajunction-box 34, which in turn connects to a Public Switched TelephoneNetwork (PSTN) 39 via a cable 33 (‘local loop’), terminating in a publicswitch 32, which establishes and enables telephony from one telephone toanother. The term “high-frequency” herein denotes any frequencysubstantially above such analog telephony audio frequencies, such asthat used for data. ISDN typically uses frequencies not exceeding 100KHz (typically the energy is concentrated around 40 KHz). The term“telephone line” herein denotes electrically-conducting lines which areintended primarily for the carrying and distribution of analog telephonysignals, and includes, but is not limited to, suchelectrically-conducting lines which may be pre-existing within abuilding and which may currently provide analog telephony service.

Junction box 34 separates the in-home circuitry from the PSTN and isused as a test facility for troubleshooting as well as for new wiring inthe home. A plurality of telephones may connect to telephone lines 5 viaa plurality of telephone outlets. Each outlet has a connector (oftenreferred to as a “jack”), commonly being in the form of RJ-11 connectorsin North-America. Each outlet may be connected to a telephone unit via acompatible “plug” connector that inserts into the jack.

Wiring 5 is normally based on a serial or “daisy-chained” topology,wherein the wiring is connected from one outlet to the next in a linearmanner; but other topologies such as star, tree, or any arbitrarytopology may also be used. Regardless of the topology, however, thetelephone wiring system within a residence always uses wired media: twoor four copper wires terminating in one or more outlets which providedirect access to these wires for connecting to telephone sets.

It is often desirable to use existing telephone wiring simultaneouslyfor both telephony and data networking. In this way, establishing a newlocal area network in a home or other building is simplified, becausethere is no need to install additional wiring.

The concept of frequency domain/division multiplexing (FDM) iswell-known in the art, and provides means of splitting the bandwidthcarried by a wire into a low-frequency band capable of carrying ananalog telephony signal and a high-frequency band capable of carryingdata communication or other signals. Such a mechanism is described, forexample, in U.S. Pat. No. 4,785,448 to Reichert et al. (hereinafterreferred to as “Reichert”). Also widely used are xDSL systems, primarilyAsymmetric Digital Subscriber Loop (ADSL) systems.

Examples of relevant prior-art in this field are the technology commonlyknown as HomePNA (Home Phoneline Networking Alliance), WO 99/12330 toFoley and as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,896,443 to Dichter(hereinafter referred to as “Dichter”). Dichter and others suggest amethod and apparatus for applying a frequency domain/divisionmultiplexing (FDM) technique for residential telephone wiring, enablingthe simultaneous carrying of telephony and data communication signals.The available bandwidth over the wiring is split into a low-frequencyband capable of carrying an analog telephony signal, and ahigh-frequency band capable of carrying data communication signals. Insuch a mechanism, telephony is not affected, while a data communicationcapability is provided over existing telephone wiring within a home.

In addition to illustrating a residential telephone system, FIG. 2 alsoshows the arrangement of a Dichter/HomePNA network. Network 20 servesboth analog telephones and provides a local area network of data units.Data units 7 a, 7 b, 7 c and 7 d are connected to the local area networkvia phonelines carrier (PNC) modems 64 a, 64 b, 64 c and 64 d,respectively. Examples of Data Communication Equipment include, but arenot limited to, modems, line drivers, line receivers, and transceivers(the term “transceiver” herein denotes a combined transmitter andreceiver), which enables data communication over the high spectrum oftelephone line 5. PNC units (‘phoneline modems’) 64 a, 64 b, 64 c and 64d are respectively connected to high pass filters (HPF) 24 a, 24 b, 24 cand 24 d, which allow access to the high-frequency band carried bytelephone line 5. In order to avoid interference to the data networkcaused by the telephones, low pass filters (LPF's) 23 a, 23 b, 23 c and23 d are added to isolate the POTS carrying band, so that telephones 26a, 26 b, 26 c and 26 d connect to telephone line 5 for providing PSTN.Furthermore, a low pass filter (not shown) may also be connected toJunction Box 34, in order to filter noise induced from or input to PSTNwiring 33.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,549,616 entitled “Telephone Outlet for implementing aLocal Area Network Over Telephone Lines and a Local Area Network usingsuch Outlets” by the present inventor and assigned to the presentassignee, describes the integration of PNC modem 64, HPF 24, and LPF 23components into outlets 21 in order to reduce complexity, as shown inFIG. 2. This allows direct connection of telephone sets 6 a, 6 b, 6 e,and 6 d to outlets 21 a, 21 b, 21 c, and 21 d, respectively, viadedicated connectors (as is done in prior-art common telephone outlets),as well as direct and easy connection of data units 7 a, 7 b, 7 c, and 7d to the respective outlets via dedicated jacks, as is usually done inLAN systems (as shown in FIG. 1).

Similarly, a network in a house based on using powerline-based homenetwork is also known in the art. The medium for networking is thein-house power lines, which is used for carrying both the mains powerand the data communication signals. For the sake of simplicity, thepower related functions are not shown in the Figure. A PLC modemconverts data communication interface (such as Ethernet IEEE802.3) to asignal which can be carried over the power lines, without affecting andbeing affected by the power signal available over those wires. Anexample for such PLC modem is HomePlug1.0 based Ethernet-to-PowerlineBridge model DHP-100 from D-Link® Systems, Inc. of Irvine, Calif., USA.

Active Outlets.

Outlets in general (to include LAN structured wiring, electrical poweroutlets, telephone outlets, and cable television outlets) have evolvedas passive devices being part of the wiring system house infrastructureand solely serving the purpose of providing access to the in-wallwiring. However, there is a trend towards embedding active circuitry inthe outlet in order to use them as part of the home/office network. Inmost cases, the circuits added serve the purpose of adding datainterface connectivity to the outlet, added to its basic passiveconnectivity function. An example of home networking over coaxial cablesusing outlets is described in WO 02/065229 published 22 Aug., 2002entitled: ‘Cableran Networking over Coaxial Cables’ to Cohen et al.

In time, as the technology and environment change, a need to upgrade,modify or change the outlet functionalities, features andcharacteristics may arise. For example, the data interface may need tobe upgraded to interconnect with new standards. In another example, thecircuitry will need to be upgraded to support higher bandwidth.Similarly, management and Quality of Service (QoS) functionalities mayneed to be either introduced or upgraded. In yet another example,additional functionalities and interfaces may need to be added. In mostcases, any such modification will require dismantling the existingoutlet and installing a new one having the improved features. Suchactivity is cumbersome, expensive and will often require professionalskill.

There is thus a widely recognized need for, and it would be highlyadvantageous to have, a method and system for allowing easy and simpleupgrading of outlets, preferably without requiring professionalinstallation.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is therefore an object of the invention to provide a method andsystem for allowing easy and simple upgrading of outlets, preferablywithout requiring professional installation.

In conjunction with a wired Local area Network (LAN), a multi-portactive network outlet is described. Such outlet comprises a transceiverto allow data communication over the network wiring. The outlet supportsone or more connectors, each allowing for data unit coupling to the datacommunication signal by a respective transceiver. Furthermore, theoutlet comprises an adapter and connected respective connector allowingfor coupling a data unit to the data communication signal via a distinctinterface. The outlet further optionally comprises a hub for themultiple data streams to be coupled. An optional management/processingfunctionality may also be embedded in the outlet.

Furthermore, an outlet to be used in conjunction with a data networkcarried over wiring simultaneously serving basic service is described.The basic service may be telephony carried over telephone wiring, powercarried over powerlines and CATV carried over coaxial cable televisioninfrastructure. In such a case, the outlet comprises a data/servicesplitter/combiner for separating the basic service signal carried overthe wiring, and allowing access thereto by a respective connector(telephone, power or CATV connector). The data signal is separated by arespective medium modem, and coupled to a data unit via a connectorcoupled to an adapter. A hub and management may be optionally employedas explained above.

In one aspect of the present invention, the above outlets comprise twomodules, each providing part of the outlet functionalities. The basemodule connects to the wiring and the interface module allows forcoupling to a data unit. The two modules are interconnected by matingconnectors. The base module is mechanically secured to a wall, and theinterface module is secured to the base module using dedicated meanssuch as screws, slide-in rails, snap-on clips or others. In the case ofthe LAN environment, the additional LAN connections may be part of thebase module or part of the interface module. Similarly, in the case ofbasic service outlets, the basic service connector may be part of thebase module or part of the interface module.

In another aspect of the present invention, a non-wired interface, suchas light (e.g. infrared), audio or radio-frequency (wireless) based, isused for coupling to a data unit. In such a case, the data unitconnector is substituted by an appropriate non-wired transceiver.

In another aspect of the present invention, the network wiring is fiberoptics based, and the outlet employs fiber optics connector andtransceiver to couple to the network wiring.

In another aspect of the present invention, an industry standardexpansion card (such as PCI, or PCMCIA) is used as the interface module,and the base module supports the required interface and connectors toconnect thereto.

It is understood that other embodiments of the present invention willbecome readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the followingdetailed description, wherein are shown and described only embodimentsof the invention by way of illustration. As will be realized, theinvention is capable of other and different embodiments and its severaldetails are capable of modification in various other respects, allwithout departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.Accordingly, the drawings and detailed description are to be regarded asillustrative in nature and not as restrictive.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention is herein described, by way of non-limiting example only,with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 shows an exemplary prior art local area network.

FIG. 2 shows an exemplary prior art local area network over telephonelines.

FIG. 3 shows a block diagram of an exemplary outlet over existingwiring.

FIG. 4 shows a block diagram of an exemplary outlet over telephonewiring.

FIG. 5 shows a block diagram of an exemplary outlet over electricitypower wiring.

FIG. 6 shows a block diagram of an exemplary outlet over CATV wiring.

FIG. 7 shows a partition A of a block diagram of an exemplary outletover existing wiring.

FIG. 8 shows a block diagram of an exemplary outlet over existing wiringaccording to the present invention.

FIG. 9 shows a block diagram of an exemplary outlet over telephonewiring according to the present invention.

FIG. 10 a shows a front pictorial view of an exemplary outlet overtelephone wiring according to the present invention.

FIG. 10 b shows a rear pictorial view of an exemplary outlet overtelephone wiring according to the present invention.

FIG. 11 shows a pictorial view of an exemplary outlet over telephonewiring according to the present invention.

FIG. 12 shows a partition B of a block diagram of an exemplary outletover existing wiring.

FIG. 13 shows a block diagram of an exemplary outlet over existingwiring according to the present invention.

FIG. 14 shows a block diagram of an exemplary outlet over telephonewiring according to the present invention.

FIG. 14 a shows a front pictorial view of an exemplary outlet overtelephone wiring according to the present invention.

FIG. 14 b shows a rear pictorial view of an exemplary outlet overtelephone wiring according to the present invention.

FIG. 14 c shows a pictorial view of an exemplary outlet over telephonewiring according to the present invention.

FIG. 15 shows a partition C of a block diagram of an exemplary outletover existing wiring.

FIG. 16 shows a block diagram of an exemplary outlet over existingwiring according to the present invention.

FIG. 16 a shows a block diagram of an exemplary outlet over electricalpower wiring according to the present invention FIG. 16 b shows a frontpictorial view of an exemplary outlet over electrical power wiringaccording to the present invention.

FIG. 17 shows a partition D of a block diagram of an exemplary outletover existing wiring.

FIG. 18 shows a block diagram of an exemplary outlet over existingwiring according to the present invention.

FIG. 18 a shows a block diagram of an exemplary outlet over CATV wiringaccording to the present invention.

FIG. 18 b shows a front pictorial view of an exemplary outlet over CATVwiring according to the present invention

FIG. 19 shows a partition E of a block diagram of an exemplary outletover existing wiring.

FIG. 20 shows a block diagram of an exemplary outlet over existingwiring according to the present invention.

FIG. 21 shows a partition F of a block diagram of an exemplary outletover existing wiring.

FIG. 22 shows a block diagram of an exemplary outlet over existingwiring according to the present invention.

FIG. 23 shows a block diagram of an exemplary outlet over LAN wiring.

FIG. 24 shows multiple partitions of a block diagram of an exemplaryoutlet over LAN wiring.

FIG. 25 shows a front pictorial view of an exemplary outlet overtelephone wiring supporting video interface according to the presentinvention.

FIG. 26 shows a front pictorial view of an exemplary outlet overtelephone wiring supporting radio-frequency based interface according tothe present invention.

FIG. 27 shows a front pictorial view of an exemplary outlet overtelephone wiring wherein the interface module is front attached andscrews secured to the base module according to the present invention.

FIG. 28 shows a front pictorial view of an exemplary outlet overtelephone wiring wherein the interface module is front-side loaded andsnap-in attached to the base module according to the present invention.

FIG. 29 shows a block diagram of an exemplary outlet wherein theinterface module is a standard expansion module according to the presentinvention.

FIGS. 30 a and 30 b show a front pictorial view of an exemplary outletover telephone wiring wherein the interface module is a USB PCMCIA-basedexpansion module according to the present invention.

FIGS. 31 a and 31 b show a front pictorial view of an exemplary outletover telephone wiring wherein the interface module is a wirelessPCMCIA-based standard expansion module according to the presentinvention.

FIGS. 31 c and 31 d show a front pictorial view of an exemplary outletover telephone wiring, wherein the interface module is a PDA accordingto the present invention.

FIGS. 32 a and 32 b show a front pictorial view of an exemplary outletover telephone wiring, wherein the base module is fed by an externalAC/DC converter according to the present invention.

FIG. 33 shows a block diagram of an exemplary outlet wherein the outletis power fed by external dedicated power source according to the presentinvention.

FIG. 34 shows a block diagram of an exemplary outlet wherein the outletis power fed by power carried over the wiring according to the presentinvention.

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The principles and operation of a network according to the presentinvention may be understood with reference to the drawings and theaccompanying description. The drawings and descriptions are conceptualonly. In actual practice, a single component can implement one or morefunctions; alternatively, each function can be implemented by aplurality of components and circuits. In the drawings and descriptions,identical reference numerals indicate those components that are commonto different embodiments or configurations.

Home Network Based Outlet.

A general functional schematic block diagram of an outlet 50 typicallyused in home network environment is shown in FIG. 3. The outlet 50facilitates a data network over in-house wiring simultaneously with thebasic service for which the wiring was originally installed to support.Non-limiting examples are telephone outlet connected to the telephonewiring to support telephone service, power outlet connected to the powerwiring to support AC power distribution and CATV outlet connected to theCATV cabling to support CATV distribution. The outlet connects to thewiring via connector 51. Since in most cases the outlet 50 is requiredto retain the basic service (being telephony, AC power or CATV) added todata networking functionality, the outlet 50 embed a service connector53 used to provide the original service. A data/servicesplitter/combiner 52 is used to separate (and combine) the basic servicesignal carried over the wiring from the data signal. For example, in thecase wherein the data and the service each signals use a differentfrequency spectrum over the wiring (FDM—Frequency DivisionMultiplexing), the splitter/combiner 52 will use a first filter toisolate the service signal spectrum and to couple it to serviceconnector 53 as well as a second filter to isolate the data signalspectrum and to feed it to medium modem 54. Similarly, the service anddata signals are combined by the splitter/combiner 52 and fed to thewiring via connector 51. In some implementations, the technology enablesa direct connection of the medium modem 54 and the service connector 53,thus obviating the need for the data/service splitter/combiner 52, andboth the medium modem 54 and the service connector 53 are directlyconnected to the wiring connector 51. Medium modem 54 functions totransmit and receive data over the wiring. In the case of a poweroutlet, the medium modem 54 enables carrying data over the powerlines.Similarly, the medium modem 54 enables carrying data over the telephonewiring in the case of telephone outlet and over the CATV cables in thecase of CATV outlet. In most cases, the modem 54, working together withthe splitter/combiner 52, is optimized neither to interfere with thebasic service signal carried over the wiring nor to be interfered by it.

The outlet 50 provides access to the data carried over the in-housewiring via outlet integrated interface, comprising data connector 58 andinterface adapter 56. Interface adapter 56 functions to include allcircuitry required in order to support the required interface whenconnected to the data network, while the actual physical connection usesinterface connector 58. In general, any serial or parallel datainterface may be used. However, in most cases, the data interfacesupported as well as the connector 58 will adhere to a common standarddata interface. Examples of such digital data interfaces are IEEE802.310/100/1000BaseT, USB (Universal Serial Bus), IEEE1284, EIA/TIA-232,IEEE1394 as well as others. Furthermore, the interface supported by theoutlet 50 through connector 58 may also be of analog type rather thanthe digital type described. Some examples are:

-   -   1. Analog video interface. The outlet may be used to input        analog video, output analog video or both. It should be noted        that this video is to be distinguished from the CATV video        signal carries as basic service, but rather involves a video        signal carried in digital form as part of the data network        formed. An outlet supporting an analog video interface is        described in WO 03/039150 entitled: “OUTLET WITH ANALOG SIGNAL        ADAPTER, A METHOD FOR USE THEREOF AND A NETWORK USING SAID        OUTLET” to the present inventor and assignee. In such an outlet,        the interface adapter 56 comprises Analog to Digital (A/D) or        Digital to Analog (D/A) converters as appropriate.    -   2. Analog voice (audio) interface. The outlet may be used to        input analog voice, output analog voice or both. It should be        noted that this voice is to be distinguished from the telephony        signal carried as basic service, but rather involves a voice        signal carried in digital form as part of the data network        formed. In such an outlet, the interface adapter 56 comprises        Analog to Digital (A/D) or Digital to Analog (D/A) converters as        appropriate.    -   3. Telephone interface. The outlet may be used to connect to a        telephone device. It should be noted that this telephone signal        is to be distinguished from the telephone signal carried as        basic service, but rather involves a telephone signal carried in        digital form as part of the data network formed. An outlet        supporting telephone interface is described in WO 03/005691        entitled: “TELEPHONE OUTLET WITH PACKET TELEPHONY ADAPTER, AND A        NETWORK USING SAME” to the present inventor and assignee. In        such an outlet, the interface adapter 56 comprises Analog to        Digital (A/D) or Digital to Analog (D/A) converters as        appropriate.

In the basic scenario, interface adapter 56 can be directly connected tothe medium modem 54, allowing signal flow from a unit connected to theoutlet via connector 58 and interface adapter 56 to the wiring via thewiring connector 51 through the medium modem 54 and thesplitter/combiner 52. In such cases, hub 55 and management 57 are notrequired.

In a managed data network environment, it would be beneficial to includepart or all of the network management functionalities into the outlet50. For example, addressing means may be integrated into the outlet inorder to allow the outlet to be remotely referenced. In yet anotherexample, QoS (Quality of Service) tools are embedded into the outlet formeasuring the service. Outlet integrated network managementfunctionalities may comprise or support:

-   -   1. Performance management. Measure and track network variables        such as throughput, response time and line utilization.    -   2. Configuration management. Monitor and change configuration        information to track the affects of software and hardware        elements.    -   3. Accounting management. Measure utilization so that use of        network resources can be tracked and regulated.    -   4. Fault management. Detect, log, notify users of problems        relating to the network running effectively.    -   5. Security management. Control access to network resources.

The network management functionalities are supported by the optionalmanagement/processing unit 57. Management functionalities may alsoinclude local—on outlet—visual indicators. The management/processingunit 57 is coupled to all relevant functions in the outlet such asmedium modem 54, hub 55 and interface adapter 56.

An optional multi-port unit (hub) 55, identical to hub 11 describedabove, may be used in order to mediate the multiple data streams in theoutlet. Basically, the hub 55 mediates between the data streamassociated with the external data device connected via connector 58 andinterface adapter 56 and the network formed over the wiring via mediummodem 54.

A telephone outlet 60 is shown in FIG. 4 as a non-limiting example ofoutlet 50. The outlet 60 is based on HomePNA-based network 40 describedabove in FIG. 3. Connector 61, associated with connector 51 of outlet50, is used to connect to the in-house telephone wiring.Splitter/combiner 52 of general outlet 50 are implemented by a set ofLow Pass Filter (LPF) 62 and High Pass Filter (HPF) 65, which arerespectively equivalent to LPF 37 and HPF 38 of network 40. Similarly,the medium modem 54 of general outlet 50 is implemented by PNC(phonelines carrier) modem 64. Connector 63 is a standard telephoneconnector (e.g. RJ-11 in North America) representing general serviceconnector 53 of general outlet 50.

Similarly, an example of powerline outlet 70 is shown in FIG. 5. Theoutlet comprises power connector 73 retaining the original AC powerdevice, wiring connector 71 to connect to the AC power wiring and PLCmodem 74 (identical to PLC 82 above). In this example, no separation isrequired between the wiring, the PLC modem 74 and the power connection73, hence splitter/combiner 52 of the general outlet 50 is not required.Some PLC modem 74 implementations may still require such separationdevice.

Another example of the general outlet 50 is the CATV outlet 80 shown inFIG. 6. Connector 81 provides the connection to the coaxial cable, andthe CATV service is retained via RF connector 83. A coax modem 84 isused as the medium modem 54. In most cases the data network uses one ofthe video channels carried over the coaxial cable, the splitter/combiner52 is implemented by BPF 82, and the connector 83 is directly connectedto the wiring connector 81.

Modular Outlet.

The current invention teaches a network-based outlet whose functions arepartitioned into two distinct parts in a modular approach. The firstpart of the outlet is referred to herein as a ‘base module’ and consistsof a mechanical structure which is mechanically attached to the wall andconnects to the in-wall wiring in the same way as applied to a typicaloutlet. The second part of the outlet, referred to herein as an‘interface module’ allows for access to the data network, and ismechanically secured to the base module. The electrical connectionbetween the modules makes use of a pair of mating connectors. The basemodule is installed in the same way as outlets are known to beinstalled, requiring the same skill-set and know-how. However, theinterface module is attached to the base module in a quick, hassle-free,non-professional and simple process, hence allowing a typical consumerto execute ‘Do-It-Yourself’ installation.

The functions included in such an outlet are partitioned between thebase and the interface modules. Various partitions may apply, as will bedescribed hereinafter. For the sake of simplicity, the followingexamples will be applied to a telephone outlet

Partition A

A first partition according to the invention, referred to as ‘partitionA’, is shown by partition A denoted by a partition line 90 in FIG. 7. Inpartition A, the partition line 90 is inserted between the wiringconnector 51 and the splitter/combiner 52 of outlet 50. A general outlet100 implementing partition A is shown in FIG. 8. Outlet 100 comprisesbase module 100 a and interface module 100 b. The two modules areconnected by mating connectors 101 and 102, integrated within basemodule 100 a and interface module 100 b respectively. In thisconfiguration, all the active components and functionalities of theoutlet 50 are included in the interface module 100 b, while the basemodule 100 a comprises the wiring connector 51 and an interfaceconnector 101, being directly connected to each other. It should benoted that said connectors are distinct, wherein connector 51 is usedfor connecting to the wiring and the interface connector 101 is used forconnecting to a mating connector 102 of the interface module 100 b. Insome implementations, base module 100 a may also comprise protectiondevices (e.g. power surge or lightning protection).

Outlet 110 shown in FIG. 9 is an example of implementing partition A intelephone outlet 60. Outlet 110 comprises a base module 110 a andinterface module 110 b, corresponding to general outlet 100 base module100 a and interface module 100 b, respectively. Similarly, matingconnectors 111 and 112 are used to interconnect the modules,respectively corresponding to connectors 101 and 102 of outlet 100.

A non limiting example of a pictorial view of outlet 110 is shown inFIGS. 10 a through 11. FIG. 10 a illustrates a front view of base module110 a and interface module 110 b. Screw holes 113 a and 113 b allows forsecuring the base module 110 a to the outlet cavity, as usually used forattaching outlets to a wall in North America. Base module 110 acomprises side rails 114 a and 114 b, into which the interface module110 b slides, thus being mechanically attached thereto. Upon securingthe interface module 110 b within the rails, contact is made betweenconnector 111 in the base module 110 a and the mating connector 112shown in FIG. 10 b. RJ-11 telephone connector common in North America isshown as connector 63 and RJ-45 data connector used in Ethernet10/100/1000BaseT networks is shown as connector 58, both comprise partof the interface module 110 b. FIG. 10 b shows the rear view of the twomating modules. Screw type connector 61 is shown, used to connect thetelephone wire pair 115 to the base module 110 a. A complete outlet 110comprising both modules attached mechanically and connected electricallyis shown in FIG. 11.

For the sake of brevity, the above example of partition A isdemonstrated relating only to telephone outlet 60. However, it should benoted that the partition can be equally applied to power outlet 70 andCATV outlet 80.

Partition A uses simple and cheap wiring-only base module 100 a, whileall the outlet functionalities are included in the interface module 100b. As such, the user has full flexibility to change and upgrade eitherthe data network related functions (such as the medium modem 54) or theinterface related functions (such as interface connector 58 and therelated interface adapter 56) or both. Such upgrade will not require anychange or modification of the base module 100 a.

Partition B

In most cases the network-based outlet is required to retain the basicservice, being telephone, power or CATV. In partition A configuration,the basic service can be accessed only as part as the interface module.Hence the base module cannot be used a stand-alone unit, but rather mustalways be accompanied and used as a set with the interface module. Assuch, outlets not used as part of the network must also include datanetworking functionalities, thus requiring always use of complex andexpensive outlets.

Partition B is shown as partition line 120 in FIG. 12. In thisconfiguration, the partition affects the connection between thesplitter/combiner 52 to the medium modem 54. General outlet 130described in FIG. 13 implements partition B and comprises base module130 a and interface module 130 b. The two modules use the matingconnectors 131 and 132 for interconnection, respectively housed as partof the base module 130 a and the interface module 130 b. The serviceconnector 53 is part of the base module 130 a, hence allowing for thebasic service function even in the case wherein only the base module 130a is installed. In the case wherein the splitter/combiner 52 is notimplemented, the base module consists only of the three connectors andinterconnected wiring, being the wiring connector 51, the serviceconnector 53 and interface connector 131 for connecting to the interfacemodule 130 b.

Since the base module 130 a supports and retains the basic service viaconnector 53, the base module 130 a can be used as a stand-alone deviceobviating the need for interface module 130 b, in the case wherein aspecific outlet is not required to support network connectivity. Still,the user has full flexibility to change and upgrade either the datanetwork related functions (such as the medium modem 54) or the interfacerelated functions (such as interface connector 58 and the relatedinterface adapter 56) or both. Such upgrade will not require any changeor modification of the base module 130 a.

It should be noted that the interface connector 131 may be identical tothe service connector 53. In such a case, two service connectors aresupported, wherein one is targeted to be used for the basic service andthe other may be used to serve the data communication network. In anycase, both connectors are distinct from the wiring connector 51.

The application of partition B to telephone outlet 60 will now bedescribed with reference to a telephone outlet 140 shown in FIG. 14,comprising a base module 140 a and interface module 140 b, correspondingto base module 130 a and interface module 130 b of outlet 130.Similarly, mating connectors 141 and 142 correspond respectively toconnectors 131 and 132 of outlet 130. A non limiting example of apictorial view of outlet 140 is shown in FIGS. 14 a through 14 c.Similar to FIG. 10 a through 11, FIG. 11 illustrates front view of basemodule 140 a and interface module 140 b. Screw holes 113 a and 113 ballow for securing the base module 140 a to the outlet cavity, asusually used for attaching outlets to a wall in North America. As shownin FIGS. 14 a through 14 c, the external view of the outlet 140 isdifferent from outlet 110 shown in FIG. 10 a through 11 by the telephoneconnector 63 (and the relevant hardware) being housed in the base modulerather than in the interface module.

For the sake of brevity, the above example of partition B isdemonstrated relating only to telephone outlet 60. However, it should benoted that the partition can be equally applied to power outlet 70 andCATV outlet 80.

Partition C

Since any outlet is always associated with specific wiring (e.g.telephone outlet is always connected to telephone wiring), and since themedium modem 54 is also always tailored towards the specific wiring(e.g. PNC modem 64 is optimized to communicate over the telephonewiring), it make sense to include the medium mode 54 within the basemodule. In this way the network backbone (signal and protocol) may beclearly distinguished from the user interface. In most cases, the mediummodems 54 in all network-based outlets communicate with each other. Assuch, replacing or upgrading only a single outlet may result ininteroperability malfunctions. By housing the medium modem 54 in thebase module, which is expected to be rarely substituted, and separatingit from the interface adapter 56 housed in the interface module, whichis expected to be frequently modified in order to adapt to the evolvinginterfaces (but does not require to be interoperable with otheroutlets), minimizes the interoperability issues which may be caused aspart of replacing interface modules. Such partition is referred toherein as partition C, and is shown as partition line 150 in FIG. 15.

General outlet 160 implementing partition C is shown in FIG. 16. Theoutlet 160 comprises base module 160 a and interface module 160 b,interconnected by the respectively mating connectors 161 and 162.Application of partition C with respect to power outlet 70 is shown inFIG. 16 a, wherein connectors 163 and 164 are added to the base module165 a and interface module 165 b, respectively. Similar to above FIGS.11 a and 14 a the pictorial views of base module 165 a and the interfacemodule 165 b are shown in FIG. 16 b. Visually, power connector 73 isused, rather than the telephony connector 63 shown in the above figures.

For the sake of brevity, the above example of partition C isdemonstrated relating only to power outlet 70. However, it should benoted that the partition can be equally applied to telephone outlet 60and CATV outlet 80.

Partition D

Partition D, described by partition line 170 in FIG. 17 involves aninterface module comprising all user interface-specific components suchas interface adapter 56 and interface connector 58. Such partitionallows for quick and easy upgrading of the outlet to support evolvingand new interfaces and standards. General outlet 180 shown in FIG. 18implements partition D, comprises base module 180 a and interface module180 b, respectively interconnected by the mating connectors 181 and 182.Application of partition D with respect to CATV outlet 80 is shown inFIG. 18 a, wherein connectors 183 and 184 are added to the base module185 a and interface module 185 b, respectively. Similar to above FIGS.11 a and 14 a the pictorial views of base module 185 a and the interfacemodule 185 b are shown in FIG. 18 b. Visually, F-Type CATV connector 83is used, rather than the telephony connector 63 shown in the abovefigures.

For the sake of brevity, the above example of partition D isdemonstrated relating only to CATV outlet 80. However, it should benoted that the partition can be equally applied to telephone outlet 60and power outlet 70.

Partition E

Partition E, described by partition line 170 in FIG. 19 involves apassive interface module comprising wiring (connector) for connection tothe adapter in the base module. Such partition allows for quick and easyupgrading of the outlet to support evolving and new connectors, whereinthe interface electronics is not being modified. In one applicationexample of conditional access the base module, while having all requiredelectronics, still inhibits access to the data network, which can onlybe obtained by using the interface module, converting the moduleinterface to a standard interface connector. General outlet 200 shown inFIG. 20 implements partition E, comprising base module 200 a andinterface module 200 b, respectively interconnected by the matingconnectors 201 and 202.

Partition F

All above partitions involves are oriented to the data flow between thedata unit connected to the outlet to the wiring. Partition F, describedby partition line 210 in FIG. 21 involves an interface module comprisingall network management relating components such as part or allmanagement/processing function 57. Such partition allows for quick andeasy upgrading of the management functionality of the outlet. Generaloutlet 220 shown in FIG. 22 implements partition F, comprising basemodule 220 a and interface module 220 b, respectively interconnected bythe mating connectors 221 and 222.

LAN Environment

While the invention has been described with regard to networks formedover wiring used for basic services (e.g. telephone, CATV and power), itwill be appreciated that the invention equally applied to outlet used innetworks using dedicated wiring. In such scenario, the basic service isa single data network interface. However, it may be required to provideadditional interfaces to an outlet, beyond the basic service of singledata connectivity interface. For example, it may be used to providemultiple data interfaces wherein the wiring supports single such dataconnection. An example for such outlet is the Network Jack™ productfamily manufactured by 3Com™ of Santa-Clara, Calif., U.S.A. In addition,such outlets are described in U.S. Pat. 6,108,331 to Thompson titled:“Single Medium Wiring Scheme for Multiple Signal Distribution inBuilding and Access Port Therefor” as well as U.S. Patent Application US2003/0112965 Published Jun. 19, 2003 to McNamara et al. titled: “ActiveWall Outlet”.

A non limiting functional block diagram of such an outlet 230 is shownin FIG. 23. While the general structure is similar to general outlet 50,some adaptations are required to the specific application. Thedata/service splitter/combiner 52 is not required since only a singletype of signal is carried over the wiring. A simple transceiver 233 isused to transmit and receive signals over the network wiring.Transceiver 233 a is used to interface the wiring via connector 231. The‘basic service’ of data port is provided via data connector 232, usingtransceiver 233 b. Both transceivers, as well as adapter 56 (connectedto interface connector 58) all share the data via hub 55. The outlet ismanaged by management/processing function 57.

Similar to the discussion above, various partitions may be applied tonetwork outlet 230. As shown in FIG. 24, partition line 240 of partitionA, partition line 241 of partition B, partition line 242 of partition D,partition line 243 of partition E or partition line 244 of partition Fmay be applied to outlet 230. The above pictorial views can equallyapply to these partitions, wherein the basic service connector is also anetwork interface, such as RJ-45 Ethernet IEEE802.3 10/100/1000BaseTconnector. Each such partition involves a set of mating connectors andmechanical fixtures to enable electrical connection and mechanicalattachment of the formed modules.

General

While the invention has been described with regard to digitalinterfaces, it will be appreciated that the invention equally applies toan outlet wherein the adapter 56 converts to analog signal interface,such as audio or video, as well as analog sensor or analog actuator.Active outlets comprising a built-in analog converter are described forexample in WO 03/039150 to the present inventor published May 8, 2003and entitled: “Outlet with Analog Signal Adapter, A Method for UseThereof and a Network Using Said Outlet”. An example of pictorial viewof outlet 140 shown in FIG. 14 a with video interface is shown in FIG.25. Data connector 58 comprised in module 140 b of FIG. 14 a issubstituted with video connector (F-Type) 250 shown in FIG. 25. Therelevant adapter 56 will include analog to digital (or digital to analogor both) functions. It should be noted that connector 250 is part of theinterface module 140 b and relates to video (or any analog signal)carried in digital form over the network, and should be distinguishedfrom connector 83 of base module 185 a of FIG. 18 b, wherein the videois the basic service and thus carried in analog form over the network

While the invention has been described with regard to wired andconnector-based interface 58, it will be appreciated that the inventionequally applies to an outlet wherein a data unit uses non-wiredinterface, such as audio, light (e.g. infrared) and radio frequency(commonly referred to as wireless). Such outlet is described in WO01/80543 Published Oct. 25, 2001 to the present inventor, titled:“Network Combining Wired and Non-Wired Segments”. In such a case, theconnector 58 will be substituted with non-wired transceiver, such aslight emitter/receiver or antenna for RF. An example of pictorial viewof outlet 140 as shown in FIG. 14 a with wireless interface is shown inFIG. 26. The data connector 58 in module 140 b of FIG. 14 a issubstituted with an antenna 260 shown in FIG. 26.

While the invention has been described with regard to outlets having asingle network interface (e.g. single connector 58), it will beappreciated that the invention equally applies to the case whereinmultiple network interfaces are supported. Furthermore, mix of interfacetypes may be employed, such as wired digital, wired analog and non-wiredinterfaces all in the same outlet. Similarly, while the invention hasbeen described with regard to outlets having single basic serviceconnection, such as telephone connector 63, power connector 73, CATVconnector 83 or data network connector 232, it will be appreciated thatthe invention equally applies to the case wherein multiple suchconnections are provided.

While the invention has been described with regard to outlets having asingle interface module, such as module 130 b of outlet 130 or module140 b or outlet 140, it will be appreciated that the invention equallyapplies to the case wherein multiple interface modules are used with asingle base module or wherein multiple base modules are used with singleinterface module.

While the invention has been described with regard to partitionsrequiring only a pair of mating connectors to allow for electricalconnection, good engineering practice may require additional interfaceelectronics to support the connection. One such embodiment comprises aset of line drivers and line receivers to enable good communicationbetween the modules. In addition, short protection circuits,live-insertion and other connection-associated means may also beemployed.

While the invention has been described with regard to outlets andnetworks based on conductive media such as wires and cables, it will beappreciated that the invention equally applies to the case wherein thenetwork medium is non-conductive, such as fiber-optical cabling. In sucha case, transceiver 233 a of outlet 230 should be substituted with afiber optic transceiver and similarly wiring connector 231 should bereplaced by a fiber optic connector. Active outlets supporting datainterfaces and based on fiber optic cabling are described in U.S. PatentApplication US 2002/0146207 Published Oct., 10, 2002 to Chu, titled:Fiber Converter Faceplate Outlet”, as well as in U.S. Pat. No. 6,108,331to Thompson titled: “Single Medium Wiring Scheme for Multiple SignalDistribution in Building and Access Port Therefor”. As such, the termwiring in this application should be interpreted to include networksbased on non-conductive medium such as fiber-optics cabling.

Mechanics.

In order to allow the base module and the interface module to jointlyform a complete outlet, the interface module should be mechanicallyattached to the base module. Such mechanical attachment should alsoeffect a proper coupling between the two mating connectors, thusallowing for good electrical connection. The pictorial views abovesuggest side rails 114 a and 114 b into which the interface module issliding as the mechanical attachment means, and wherein surface matingconnectors type are used. However, it will be appreciated that theinvention equally applies to the case wherein other means of mechanicalattachment are used and wherein other types of mating connectors areemployed. Moreover, some connectors are designed to provide mechanicalsupport and thus can be also aid in the mechanical aspect, added to theelectrical function. In all cases, the mechanical arrangement shouldallow for easy installation and replacement of interface modules.

One such alternate attachment is shown in FIG. 27. Telephone outlet 140is pictorially shown, supporting functionality similar to FIGS. 14above. As shown in the figure, the interface module 140 b′ is attachedto base module 140 a′ by means of two screws. The two screws 271 a and271 b pass through the respective holes 272 a and 272 b in the interfacemodule 140 b′ and respectively fit into 273 a and 273 b thread embeddedin the base module 140 a′.

Another mechanical attachment concept is illustrated in FIG. 28, withregard to outlet 140 modules 140 a″ and 140 b″. The attachment makes useof resiliently biased latches 281 and 281 b located over the interfacemodule 140 b″. Upon inserting the interface module 140 b″ onto therespective cavity in the base module 140 a″, the latches lock into theirrespective receptacles 282 a and 282 b to form a rugged connectionbetween the modules. Both arrangements of FIGS. 27 and 28 alsodemonstrate front module loading rather than top loading describedabove.

Standard Expansion Module.

Expansion modules are known in the art and are widely used for addingcapacity and functionality to personal computers and other electronicequipment (such as PDAs). Examples of such expansion modules includecommunication cards to allow electrical communication to be establishedbetween electronic devices or to allow electronic devices to beconnected. The communications cards, for example, are commonly used withmodems, fax/modems, Local Area Network (LAN) adapters and cellulartelephone equipment. Other examples of expansion modules includeadditional memory, processing power and peripheral devices interfaces.The typical expansion module is designed to plug into a port, slot, orsocket of a host computing device, and uses a bus structure for datainterface with the computing unit. Such expansion modules are typicallybuilt in accordance with prescribed physical and electrical standards,so as to insure compatibility between different manufacturers. Examplesof such industry standards are PCMCIA, ISA, EISA, PCI.

While the invention has been described with regard to general interfacemodules, it will be appreciated that the invention equally applies tothe case wherein the interface module is an expansion module and thephysical and electrical specifications adhere to industry standards.FIG. 29 shows an outlet 290 based on the adapter from outlet 180 of FIG.18 to support standard expansion module as the interface module.Interface module 180 b of the outlet 180 is implemented by a standardexpansion module 290 b, which interfaces to a base module 290 a, being amodified version of the base module 180 a of the outlet 180. The twomodules are connected via connectors 291 and 292, conforming to theexpansion module connector specifications. In most cases, the basemodule 290 a should also include a standard expansion module interface(not shown), supporting the electrical and functional specifications ofthe interface and conforming to the standard expansion module interface293 in the expansion module 290 b.

A pictorial view of outlet 290 is shown in FIGS. 30 a and 30 b, whereinthe PCMCIA standard is used. The interface module 290 b is shown to bethe market available standard USB 2.0 PCMCIA card, which fitsmechanically and electrically on to the base module 290 a. PCMCIAconnector 292 is shown on the expansion module 290 b. The expansion cardshown provides two USB 2.0 interfaces via USB connectors 295 a and 295b. Similarly, the expansion card 290 b can implement any functionality,such as memory, processing and connectivity, either wired or non-wired.An example of wireless connectivity is shown in FIGS. 31 a and 31 b,wherein antenna 260 is also shown as part of the expansion module 290 b.

While the invention has been described with regard to standard modules,wherein the base module serves as virtual host and provides hostinterface, it will be appreciated that the invention equally applies tothe case wherein the host interface is part of the interface module, andthe base module comprises the expansion card interface. In suchconfiguration, data units such as Personal Digital Assistants (PDA) orcellular phones or any other small data unit can be used as interfacemodule, and couple the network signal carried over the wiring. Suchexample is pictorially shown in FIGS. 35 a and 35 b. In FIG. 35, thebase module 310 a is similar to base module 290 a, with the exception ofconnector 351 being expansion card type of connector, allowing formating with the connector on the PDA 310 b. FIG. 35 b shows the modulesattached to form full functioning outlet.

Base Module Powering.

With the exception of partition line A, in most implementations the basemodule includes active components, and as such needs to be powered.Three non limiting power sources as described hereinafter include localfeeding, power over wiring and via the interface module.

Local Feeding.

In this implementation the base module is connected to a power sourcewhich feeds its active components. A pictorial view of such a mechanismis shown in FIGS. 32 a and 32 b. A common small AC/DC converter 320 isused, connected to the base module via plug 322 and respective jack 321on the base module. FIG. 32 b shows the outlet with the adapter insertedinto the base module.

A power adapter may be used in the base module, for adapting theexternal power to the internal needs. Such adapter may include voltageconversion (such as DC to DC converter) in order to adapt to specificvoltages required, protection circuits (such as fuse or currentlimiting), regulation and noise filtration, as well as otherfunctionality as known in the art. In addition, such adapter maycomprise an external AC/DC converter 320, allowing the base module to bedirectly connected to the mains. An outlet 330, based on outlet 80above, comprising such power adapter function 322 is shown schematicallyin FIG. 33. The power adapter is fed from an external source viaconnector 321, and outputs the required DC power to all power-fedcomponents in the base outlet. While outlet 330 shows a completenon-partitioned outlet, it should be apparent that in each relevantpartition discussed above, the power adapter 322 and its respectiveconnector 321 are part of the base outlet.

Power Over Wiring.

In this embodiment, the base module is fed by power carried over thewiring to which the outlet is connected. The power may be carried overseparated conductors. In this case, the same wiring connector 51 may beused to connect to the power carrying conductors using separated pins.Alternatively, additional power dedicated connector may be used.

In one preferred embodiment, the power is carried simultaneously overthe wiring carrying the data network signals and/or the basic servicesignal. Such an outlet 340 is shown schematically in FIG. 34. The powersplitter function 341 serves to extract the power carried over thewiring, and feed it to the power adapter 322, rather than the adapter322 being externally fed. In most cases, the power splitter 341operation should not interfere with the data and basic service alsocarried over the same wiring (e.g. loading effects and impedancematching).

The implementation of such a mechanism is trivial wherein the basicservice is AC power as described above with respect to outlet 70 shownin FIG. 7. The power splitter 341 comprises a simple filter and thepower adapter 322 comprises a standard AC/DC converter (similar to theexternal unit 320 described above).

Recent techniques developed allow for carrying simultaneously power andbasic service (and data) over the same wiring infrastructure. U.S.patent publication 20020003873 to Rabenko et al. titled: “System andmethod for providing power over a home phone line network” teachescarrying AC power over telephone wiring carrying both telephony anddata, by using a part of the spectrum not used by the other signals.Similarly, a recent technique known as Power over Ethernet (PoE) (a.k.a.Power over LAN) and standardized under IEEE802.3af, also explained inU.S. Pat. No. 6,473,609 to Lehr et al. titled: “Structure CablingSystem”, describes a method to carry power over LAN wiring, using thephantom mechanism. The above technologies, as well as others, may beused to provide power to any of the base modules described above.

Powering via Interface Module.

In this embodiment the base module is fed from the interface module.Possible power sources for the interface module are described below. Theabove-described modules mating connectors used for data transfer mayalso be used for power transfer from the interface module to the basemodule. Alternatively, additional set of mating connectors may be used,dedicated for the power transfer between the modules.

Interface Module Powering.

With the exception of partition line E, in most implementations theinterface module includes active components, and as such needs to bepowered. Furthermore, some interfaces (such as USB or IEEE802.3af)require the interface to supply power to the connected data unit via thesame data connector. Three non-limiting power sources examples includelocal feeding, power via the base module and via the data unit and arenow described.

Local Feeding.

Similar to the description relating to the base module, the interfacemodule may be powered from a local power source, using a dedicated powerconnector. Power adapter functionality may be required as explainedabove regarding the power adapter 322.

Powering via the Base Module.

In this configuration the interface module is powered via the connectionto the base module, either using power dedicated or by data and powerconnectors set. The power adapter 322 functionality may be shared andused by both modules or a dedicated power adapter function may be usedindependently by each module.

Powering via the Data Unit.

As explained above, several data interface standards also carry powerover the interface. For example, in the case where the interface moduleis connected to USB host unit, the USB interface may feed the interfacemodule.

While the invention has been described with regard to single powersource, it will be appreciated that the invention equally applies to thecase wherein multiple power sources are used either for redundancy orload sharing.

Those of skill in the art will understand that the various illustrativelogical blocks, modules and circuits described in connection with theembodiments disclosed herein may be implemented in any number of wayincluding electronic hardware, computer software, or combinations ofboth. The various illustrative components, blocks, modules and circuitshave been described generally in terms of their functionality. Whetherthe functionality is implemented as hardware or software depends uponthe particular application and design constraints imposed on the overallsystem. Skilled artisans recognize the interchangeability of hardwareand software under these circumstances, and how best to implement thedescribed functionality for each particular application.

Although exemplary embodiments of the present invention have beendescribed, this should not be construed to limit the scope of theappended claims. Those skilled in the art will understand that variousmodifications may be made to the described embodiment. Moreover, tothose skilled in the various arts, the invention itself herein willsuggest solutions to other tasks and adaptations for other applications.It is therefore desired that the present embodiments be considered inall respects as illustrative and not restrictive, reference being madeto the appended claims rather than the foregoing description to indicatethe scope of the invention.

1. A media converter outlet that is part of a local area network in abuilding, the network including at least part of a fiber optic cablethat is at least in part in walls of the building and is terminated at awall opening or outlet cavity, said outlet comprising: a first fiberoptic connector for connecting said outlet to the fiber optic cable; afiber optic transceiver for bidirectional digital data communication ofa digital data signal with a transceiver of the same type as said fiberoptic transceiver over the fiber optic cable; a power port connectableto receive a power signal from a power source; a power supply,comprising an AC/DC converter or a DC/DC converter, coupled between saidpower port and said fiber optic transceiver for DC powering said fiberoptic transceiver by the power signal; a data port for coupling at leastpart of said digital data signal to a first unit; a multi-port unitincluding one of: a hub; a switch; a router; and a gateway, coupled topass data between said data port and said fiber optic transceiver; andat least one enclosure housing said first fiber optic connector, saidfiber optic transceiver, said power port, said power supply, said dataport and said multi-port unit, wherein: said outlet is mountable intothe wall opening or outlet cavity; and said outlet is addressable in thelocal area network.
 2. The outlet according to claim 1, wherein said atleast one enclosure comprises first and second enclosures, each of saidenclosures comprising power-consuming circuits powered from said powersupply, and wherein said first and second enclosures are removablymechanically attached to each other and electrically connected to eachother to enable power to be passed between them.
 3. The outlet accordingto claim 2, further comprising mechanical attachment and electricalconnection means based on an industry standard interface for providingthe mechanical attachment and electrical connection between said firstand second enclosures.
 4. The outlet according to claim 3, wherein saidindustry standard interface is based on a Personal Computer (PC)expansion slot.
 5. The outlet according to claim 4, wherein said PCexpansion slot is one of: a PCMCIA slot; an ISA slot; an EISA slot; anda PCI slot.
 6. The outlet according to claim 2, wherein said secondenclosure is a handheld unit and said first enclosure is adapted todock, supply power to, and communicate with said handheld unit.
 7. Theoutlet according to claim 6, wherein said handheld unit is a PersonalDigital Assistant (PDA) or a cellular telephone.
 8. The outlet accordingto claim 2, further comprising a mechanical attachment device comprisingat least one of: a guiding rail; a screw; a latch; and a connector bodyfor the removable mechanical attachment of said first and secondenclosures to each other.
 9. The outlet according to claim 2, whereinsaid outlet is further adapted to provide live-insertion andshort-circuit protection associated with the electrical connection ofsaid first and second enclosures to each other.
 10. The outlet accordingto claim 2, wherein said first and second enclosures are operative tobi-directionally communicate digital data therebetween.
 11. The outletaccording to claim 1, wherein said enclosure is constructed to have atleast one of the following: a form substantially similar to that of astandard outlet; wall mounting elements substantially similar to thoseof a standard wall outlet; a shape allowing direct mounting in an outletopening or cavity; and a form to at least in part substitute for astandard outlet.
 12. The outlet according to claim 1, further comprisinga power connector coupled to said power port for receiving power fromthe power source.
 13. The outlet according to claim 1, wherein thedigital data signal is a bi-directional, packet-based serial digitaldata signal, and said fiber optic transceiver is adapted fortransmitting and receiving the bi-directional, packet-based serialdigital data signal.
 14. The outlet according to claim 1, wherein thedigital data signal is a full-duplex digital data signal, and said fiberoptic transceiver is adapted for transmitting and receiving thefull-duplex serial digital data signal.
 15. The outlet according toclaim 1, wherein the first unit is a digital data unit, and said outletfurther comprises: a data connector for connecting to the digital dataunit; and a data transceiver coupled between said data connector andsaid data port and operative to effect bi-directional digital datacommunication with the digital data unit.
 16. The outlet according toclaim 15, wherein said data connector is an RJ-45 connector, said datatransceiver is an Ethernet transceiver, and communication with the dataunit is based on Ethernet IEEE802.3 10BaseT, or 100BaseTX, or 1000BaseT.17. The outlet according to claim 15, wherein said data connector andcommunication with the data unit are based on one of USB, IEEE1284, andIEEE1394 standard, and said data connector and said data transceiver arerespectively adapted to substantially conform to one of: USB; IEEE1284;and IEEE1394 specifications.
 18. The outlet according to claim 1,wherein the first unit is an analog unit, and said outlet furthercomprises: an analog connector for coupling a further analog signal tothe analog unit; and a converter between analog and digital signalscoupled between said analog connector and said data port for providingan analog connection with the analog unit, wherein said converter is atleast one of an analog to digital converter and a digital to analogconverter.
 19. The outlet according to claim 18, wherein the first unitis an audio or video unit, and said analog connector is, respectively,an audio or video connector.
 20. The outlet according to claim 1,wherein said outlet further supports at least one of: trafficmanagement; Quality-of-Service (QoS) measurement; performancemanagement; configuration management; accounting management; faultmanagement; and security management.
 21. The outlet according to claim1, further comprising a non-wired transceiver coupled to said data portand coupled to be powered from said power supply, for non-wiredbi-directional digital data communication with a non-wired data unit.22. The outlet according to claim 21, wherein the non-wiredcommunication with the non-wired data unit is carried out in acommunication medium using one of: light; infrared radiation; acousticenergy; and radio frequency energy.
 23. The outlet according to claim 1,wherein the first unit is an analog telephone set, the digital datasignal includes a digitized telephone signal, and said outlet furthercomprises: an analog telephone connector for coupling an analogtelephone signal to the analog telephone set; and a converter betweenthe analog telephone signal and digitized telephone signals coupledbetween said analog telephone connector and said data port, wherein saidconverter includes an analog to digital converter and a digital toanalog converter.
 24. The outlet according to claim 1, further beingpluggable into an existing outlet.